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Criminal charges

criminal mischief

Criminal mischief is generally the damage, destruction, defacing, or alteration of tangible property (vandalism), done with criminal intent (intentionally or knowingly). Criminal mischief charges often arise from (1) damage to a home or dwelling; (2) damage to a place of business; (3) damage to a motor vehicle; (4) damage to a school; (5) defacement or destruction of public or private property (graffiti, etc.); or (6) tampering with public water, gas, power, or communications.

Criminal mischief laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—usually in the penal or criminal code.

In New Hampshire, criminal mischief is addressed under RSA 634:2 of the state's criminal code. The law defines criminal mischief as any willful or reckless act that causes damage to the property of another, including acts of vandalism, graffiti, or tampering with utilities. This can encompass damage to homes, businesses, vehicles, schools, and both public and private property. The severity of the charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the extent of the damage, the value of the property affected, and whether the act caused or could have caused interruption or impairment of public services. Intentionally or knowingly causing such damage can lead to criminal charges, with penalties that may include fines, restitution, and imprisonment.

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Criminal charges

criminal mischief

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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New-Hampshire State Code

New-Hampshire State Code

Criminal charges

criminal mischief

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